Diaper and absorbent article

ABSTRACT

A diaper for holding an absorbent article in close bodily contact in the crotch region of the wearer. The diaper comprises a front region, a crotch region having a specified Crotch Holding Force, and a rear region. The crotch region of the diaper typically is elastically extensible in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. The diaper provides an upward holding force against the absorbent article in the crotch region to hold the article in close bodily contact. A system comprising the diaper and an absorbent article for use therewith, and a method for holding such an article in close bodily contact by wearing the diaper, is also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/562,972, filed on Nov. 22, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,803,147incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a reusable textile diaper for holdingan absorbent article in close bodily contact in the crotch region of thewearer. More particularly, the invention relates to such a diaper for anabsorbent article having a compatible shape and size, such as a urineand/or BM pad, bag, or other absorbent device. The invention alsorelates to a system comprising the diaper and an absorbent article foruse therewith, and a method for holding such an absorbent article inclose bodily contact by wearing the diaper.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Disposable absorbent articles are commercially available in a widevariety of configurations for absorbing and retaining urine and feces.Unfortunately, such absorbent articles may leak along their peripherydue to poor fit or improper placement. Such leakage frequently resultsin soiling of a wearer's clothing or bedding.

While there are many patents and applications disclosing variousgarments and systems for holding absorbent articles against the body,there is a continuing need for a reusable textile diaper capable ofholding an absorbent article in close bodily contact in the crotchregion to provide improved leakage protection and wearer comfort.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system comprising:

-   -   a) a diaper for holding an absorbent article in close bodily        contact in the crotch region, said diaper having a longitudinal        centerline defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral        centerline defining a lateral direction, said diaper comprising:        -   1) a front region;        -   2) a crotch region attached to the front region, said crotch            region having a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of greater            than about 0.1 kgf and a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of            less than about 1.0 kgf; and        -   3) a rear region attached to the crotch region, said rear            region capable of cooperating with the front region to            provide an adjustable waistband; and    -   b) an absorbent article capable of being held in close bodily        contact in the crotch region by said diaper, said absorbent        article comprising a liquid pervious side, a liquid impervious        side opposite the liquid pervious side, and an absorbent        component between the liquid pervious side and the liquid        impervious side, wherein the liquid pervious side and the liquid        impervious side are arranged to form a unitary structure.

The invention also relates to a system comprising:

-   -   a) a diaper for holding an absorbent article in close bodily        contact in the crotch region, said diaper having a longitudinal        centerline defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral        centerline defining a lateral direction, said diaper comprising:        -   1) a front region;        -   2) a crotch region attached to the front region, said crotch            region having a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of greater            than about 0.1 kgf and a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of            less than about 1.0 kgf; and        -   3) a rear region attached to the crotch region, said rear            region capable of cooperating with the front region to            provide an adjustable waistband; and    -   b) an absorbent article capable of being held in close bodily        contact in the crotch region by said diaper, said absorbent        article being comprising a liquid impermeable bag having an        aperture.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a system comprising:

-   -   a) a diaper for holding an absorbent article in close bodily        contact in the crotch region, said diaper having a longitudinal        centerline defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral        centerline defining a lateral direction, said diaper comprising:        -   1) a front region;        -   2) a crotch region attached to the front region, said crotch            region having a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of greater            than about 0.1 kgf and a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-2.0) of            less than about 1.0 kgf; and        -   3) a rear region attached to the crotch region, said rear            region capable of cooperating with the front region to            provide an adjustable waistband; and    -   b) an absorbent article capable of being held in close bodily        contact in the crotch region by said diaper, said absorbent        article comprising a liquid pervious side, a liquid impervious        side opposite the liquid pervious side, and a trapezoid-shaped        primary absorbent core between the liquid pervious side and the        liquid impervious side, wherein the liquid pervious side and the        liquid impervious side are arranged to form a unitary structure,        said absorbent article having a lateral centerline defining a        front region and a rear region, said front region having a        caliper of greater than about 5.0 mm and said rear region having        an absorbent capacity equal to or greater than said front        region.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pull-on diaper of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pull-on diaper shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the pull-on diaper of FIG. 1 that has beenopened at the sides, with the elastic components pulled flat, andfurther comprising an extension or panel on one side of the diaper.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an absorbent pad suitable for use with a diaperof the invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the pad of FIG. 4 further comprising fasteningsystems and worn with the diaper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a plan view of an absorbent article fluid management devicesuitable for use with a diaper herein.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the device of FIG. 6 taken along line 7-7.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of an absorbent article BM management devicesuitable for use with a diaper herein.

FIG. 9 is a plan view of an absorbent article urine management devicesuitable for use with a diaper herein.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of the pad of FIG. 4 further comprising regionshaving compositions disposed thereon that are transferable to thewearer's skin.

FIG. 11 is a plan view of the pad of FIG. 4 further comprising sensorsoperatively connected to the pad.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of the pad of FIG. 4 further comprising a pair ofside shields.

FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the pad of FIG. 12 taken along line13-13.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of an absorbent article herein with profiledabsorbency suitable for use with a diaper of the invention.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged sectional view of the article of FIG. 14 takenalong line 15-15.

FIG. 16 is a plan view of a diaper of the invention comprising fasteningsystems.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of a diaper of the invention comprising first andsecond openings.

FIG. 18 is a front view of a diaper of the invention comprising anopening at the urethral opening when the diaper is worn.

FIG. 19 is a front view of a diaper of FIG. 18 with an absorbent articlecovering the opening.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The diaper of the invention is suitable for holding a compatiblearticle, typically an absorbent article, in close bodily contact in thecrotch region of the wearer. In one embodiment, the diaper is intendedfor use with urinary and/or BM absorbent articles, such as pads, diaperinserts, and the like. In still another embodiment, the diaper isintended for use with a disposable fluid management device comprising abag, such as a urine or BM absorbent device. The diaper may also be usedwith an article comprising a lotion coating, a skin care composition, ora therapeutic composition that is partially transferable to the wearer'sskin, or a sensor operatively connected to the article. The absorbent orother article herein typically has a compatible shape and size so thatit fits within the crotch region of the wearer.

While not intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that thediaper provides an upward holding force against the article in thecrotch region to hold the absorbent article in close bodily contact whenthe diaper is worn. The diaper thus holds the absorbent article in closebodily contact throughout a range of wearer motions, often providingimproved performance (e.g., less leakage from the absorbent article).Additionally, when the diaper and absorbent article are designed andcoordinated to work together, the resulting system can be optimized toprovide consumer benefits such as leakage prevention, wearing comfort,stay-in-place performance, correct placement, discreetness, and/or costeffectiveness.

The invention also relates to a system comprising the diaper and acompatible article, and a method for holding such an article in closebodily contact in the crotch region by wearing the diaper. The articletypically is an absorbent article comprising a liquid pervious side, aliquid impervious side opposite the liquid pervious side, and anabsorbent component between the liquid pervious side and the liquidimpervious side. The liquid pervious side and the liquid impervious sideof the article are arranged to form a unitary structure. The article hasa compatible size and shape, and is capable of being held in closebodily contact in the crotch region by the diaper. Compatible absorbentarticles include incontinent pads, fluid collection bags, and otherdevices. Typically, the article and the diaper are designed andcoordinated to work together and provide improved performance, comfortand/or fit of the article.

The system of the invention comprises at least one absorbent article incombination with the diaper. The absorbent article and diaper of thissystem may be packaged in a common, bundled, coordinated, or associatedpackage or packages, and may be sold as a kit, for example a diaper kit.

As used herein, the term “absorbent article” refers to articles that areplaced against or in proximity to the body in the wearer's crotch regionto acquire, absorb, and contain the various exudates discharged from thebody. The term “absorbent article” is intended to include diaperinserts, sanitary pads, incontinence pads, BM pads, fluid collectionbags, urine collection bags, feces collection bags (i.e., BM collectionbags), and other absorbent articles worn in the crotch region.

The term “BM” (i.e., bowel movement) refers to various fecal exudatesthat are discharged from the anus. BM pads and BM management devicesrefer to absorbent articles worn adjacent to the anus region that areintended to absorb and contain the various fecal exudates that aredischarged from the body.

The term “disposable” refers to structures that are intended to bediscarded after a single use or a few uses (i.e., they are not intendedto be cleaned, laundered or otherwise restored and/or reused after use).Such structures may be recycled, composted or otherwise disposed of inan environmentally compatible manner. While the articles describedherein are typically disposable, they may be designed to be cleaned,laundered, restored and/or reused many times.

The term “crotch region” refers to the external genitalia and anusregions.

The term “gluteal groove” refers to the crevice between the buttocks(gluteus maximi) extending upwardly from the perineum.

The terms “fluid”, “liquid” and the like are intended to beinterchangeable and refer to materials that are in a liquid state at atemperature of about 38° C.

As noted above, the invention provides a diaper that holds an article,particularly an absorbent article, against a wearer's body in the crotchregion. With a conventional diaper, the crotch region typically does nothold and maintain the absorbent article in close bodily contact. Forexample, the article may sag when the wearer's legs are brought togetherand when the user moves. On the other hand, the diaper of the inventionholds the article substantially against the crotch region. The diapertypically maintains the upward force against the article throughout arange of body motions so that the article is held in close bodilycontact. The close bodily contact generally results in improvedperformance (e.g., less leakage). Moreover, the diaper is comfortable towear notwithstanding the close conformity of the diaper and article tothe wearer's body. It is believed that the sufficient and comfortableupward holding force provided by the crotch region of the diaper againstthe article is due at least in part to the force exerted radially andaxially by the stretch material used. The crotch region can becharacterized as having a relatively low Crotch Holding Force value at agiven extension distance, when measured as described herein. Incontrast, conventional diapers have often attempted to conform anabsorbent article to the crotch area by using materials of relativelylow stretch and high stretch modulus.

While the present invention encompasses a wide variety of diaper designsand compatible absorbent articles, it will often be described in termsof a diaper comprising a material of relatively high stretch and lowstretch modulus, used in conjunction with an article such as anabsorbent pad. FIGS. 1 and 2 show front and rear views of one diaperembodiment of the invention. FIG. 18 shows a front view of anotherdiaper embodiment of the invention. Both diaper embodiments comprise afront region 30, a crotch region 50 attached to the front region, and arear region 40 attached to the front and crotch regions. The front andrear regions are capable of cooperating to provide an adjustablewaistband, such as elasticized waistband 22. The diaper is thus providedwith a waist opening 21 that allows entry into the diaper. The front,crotch and rear regions cooperate to provide a pair of leg openings 60.The crotch region extends between the front region and the rear regionand to side elastics 62 attached to the leg openings. Typically, thefront, rear, and crotch regions are elastic in the lateral andlongitudinal directions. In these diaper embodiments, the front and rearregions are connected to provide a “pull-on” type diaper. In anotherdiaper embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the rear region comprises at leasttwo fastening systems that cooperate with the front region to provide anadjustable waistband in an “hour-glass” diaper configuration.Specifically, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the fastening system70 comprises mechanical fastening tabs 74 attached to the rear regionand configured to engage with a second fastening component 76 attachedto the front region.

FIG. 3 shows the diaper 20 in a full flat out position wherein each ofthe sides 32 and 34 has been opened and elastic components have beenpulled flat. FIG. 3 can also be considered to be a plan view of oneembodiment of the diaper. The diaper has a longitudinal centerline L anda lateral centerline T. The term “longitudinal” refers to a line, axisor direction in the plane of the diaper that is generally aligned with(e. g., approximately parallel to) a vertical plane that bisects astanding wearer into left and right body halves when the diaper is worn.The term “lateral” refers to a line, axis or direction that lies withinthe plane of the diaper that is generally perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction. The diaper typically is symmetric about thelongitudinal centerline L and asymmetric about the lateral centerline T.

The diaper 20 can comprise woven, nonwoven (with stretch incorporated asknown in the art) or knit fabrics, but typically comprises a knitfabric. Other materials having the requisite mechanical properties arealso suitable. The diaper may be durable or disposable, but typically isdisposed of after a period of time (e.g., about 1 to 3 months) when itbegins to lose elasticity or otherwise shows wear. When the diaper is aknit fabric, the mechanical properties of the various components can beprovided by a combination of the knit pattern used for a particularcomponent and the yarns that are used. In one embodiment, the stretchproperties of the crotch region of the diaper are derived from circularknit materials known in the art. In one embodiment, the front region,the crotch region, and the rear region are wholly knit. The diapertypically comprises material having a basis weight greater than that ofhosiery and less than conventional undergarments in order to provide adesired “sheerness”.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the front region 30 is that portion of diaper20 that cooperates with the rear region 40 to encircle a wearer's waistand hips. The front region cooperates with the rear region to define awaist opening 21 that allows entry into the diaper, and to provide anadjustable waistband such that the waist opening conforms to a wearer'swaist. The adjustable waistband may be an adjustable belt, but typicallyis an elasticized waistband, such as elasticized waistband 22. Theelasticized waistband may be formed by providing an elastic member, suchas Lycra® or spandex material, adjacent each distal end of the blankshown in FIG. 3. The elasticized waistband typically comprises the sameyarn as, and is integrally knit with, the front region and the rearregion. More typically, the elasticized waistband comprises a turnedwelt as known in the art. One knitting pattern for the elasticizedwaistband comprises a combination of plain knit stitches and floatstitches wherein every fourth wale is provided with a positive floatstitch. The front, rear, and crotch regions also cooperate to define theleg openings 60, as shown in FIG. 1.

The front region 30 can be cut to an appropriate shape from a woven ornonwoven material and joined to the remaining portions of the diaper 20,but is typically wholly plain knit, more typically jersey knit, from acombination of elastically extensible and non-elastically extensibleyarns. The elastic properties of the individual yarns and the particularknitting pattern can be used to define the mechanical properties of thefront region. In one embodiment, the front region comprises wholly plainknit, e.g., jersey knit, using Lycra® or spandex yarn having suitablemechanical properties in all courses. Other knitting patterns andalternative yarns can be used to provide the desired mechanicalproperties.

While the front region 30 need not comprise elastic material, it istypically extensible in both the longitudinal and lateral directions.Such elastic extensibility enables the diaper 20 to fit a variety ofbodily shapes and sizes and provides good conformity to a wearer's body.An extensible front region further cooperates with the rear region 40and the crotch region 50 to provide an upward holding force within thecrotch region of the diaper throughout a wide range of wearer movements.The upward holding force helps maintain an article, such as absorbentpad 200 shown in FIG. 4, worn with the diaper in close bodily contact inthe wearer's crotch region. The upward force directs the absorbent pad200 such that it is held closely against the wearer's body, wherein thefront edge 202 of the pad lies in a position anterior to the genitaliaand the rear edge 204 typically lies posterior to the anus. The upwardforce also helps maintain the absorbent pad in position throughout awide range of wearer motions.

The crotch region 50 is positioned along the longitudinal centerline Lof diaper 20 between the front region 30 and the rear region 40. Thecrotch region cooperates with the front region and the rear region todefine the leg openings 60. The crotch region is that portion of thediaper that supports the absorbent article, such as absorbent pad 200,and holds it in close bodily contact in the wearer's crotch area. Thecrotch region has a generally trapezoid shape. When measured in a flatand non-extended state, the crotch region for an adult typically has awidth measured 10.0 cm above the lateral centerline of from about 6.0 toabout 15.0 cm, and a width at the lateral centerline of from about 1.5to about 10.0 cm. Typically, the crotch region has a width measured 10.0cm above the lateral centerline of from about 8.0 to about 12.0 cm, anda width at the lateral centerline of from about 2.5 to about 8.0 cm. Inone embodiment, the crotch region has a width measured 10.0 cm above thelateral centerline of from about 9.0 to about 11.0 cm, and a width atthe lateral centerline of from about 4.0 to about 5.0 cm. When used withan absorbent article in a system of the invention, the crotch regionwidth typically is greater than or equal to the width of the primaryabsorbent core.

The crotch region 50 cooperates with the front region 30 and the rearregion 40 so that the diaper 20 as worn provides a comfortable butsufficient upward holding force against the article. Without being boundby theory, it is believed that the upward holding force provided by thecrotch region against the article is due at least in part to thecompressive holding force provided by the stretch material therein. Whenthe crotch region is stretched in use, the material exerts compressiveforces against the article so as to hold it closely against the wearer'scrotch area. This conformity is maintained over a wide range of bodymovement, e.g., close pad-to-body contact is maintained when a wearer'slegs are close together, spread apart, and/or moving front to backduring walking. The holding force is great enough to securely hold thearticle against the body, but not great enough to cause wearerdiscomfort or to push the article out of position, especially duringbody movement. The crotch material typically has relatively low stretchmodulus and provides relatively high “available stretch” as worn. Thishigh available stretch in both the lateral and longitudinal directions,combined with sufficient but relatively low holding force, helps tomaintain the article in close bodily contact across a range of bodysizes, article (e.g., pad) sizes, and body motions. The crotch region ofthe diaper has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of greater than about0.1 kgf, typically greater than about 0.2 kgf, as measured by the CrotchHolding Force method presented herein. In one embodiment, the crotchregion has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of greater than about 0.2kgf, typically greater than about 0.3 kgf. The crotch region also has aCrotch Holding Force (CHF-2.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf, typicallyless than about 0.8 kgf, more typically less than about 0.6 kgf. In oneembodiment, the crotch region has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) ofless than about 1.0 kgf, typically less than about 0.8 kgf, moretypically less than about 0.6 kgf. In another embodiment, the crotchregion has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf,typically less than about 0.8 kgf. In yet another embodiment, the crotchregion has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-6.5) of less than about 1.4 kgf,typically less than about 1.2 kgf.

The crotch region 50 can comprise any woven material, nonwoven material(with stretch incorporated as known in the art), knit material, or thelike that possesses the requisite physical properties. Similarly, thecrotch region can comprise one material or a combination of materials,stitching, and/or design patterns that collectively possess therequisite physical properties. The crotch region can be cut to anappropriate shape and size, and joined to the remaining portions of thediaper. The crotch region is typically wholly plain knit, more typicallyjersey knit, from a combination of elastically extensible andnon-elastically extensible yarns. The elastic properties of theindividual yarns and the particular knitting pattern can be used todefine the mechanical properties of the crotch region. In oneembodiment, the crotch region comprises wholly plain knit, e.g., jerseyknit, using elastomeric fiber material such as Lycra® or spandex yarnhaving suitable mechanical properties in all courses. Other knittingpatterns and alternative yarns can be used to provide the desiredmechanical properties. Typically the crotch region comprises a knitmaterial having a Crotch Holding Force similar to that of the materialused to construct the front region 30 and/or the rear region 40. Moretypically, the crotch region is integrally knit with the front regionand/or the rear region using a plain knit pattern. Suitable yarnsinclude natural yarns, such as cotton yarns and wool yarns, andsynthetic yarns, such as nylon yarns, polyester yarns, acrylic yarns,and combinations thereof, e.g., nylon yarns and cotton yarns. Typically,elastomeric fiber material such as Lycra® or spandex yarns are used withthese natural and/or synthetic fibers to provide the desired stretchproperties. In one embodiment, the crotch region of the diaper comprisesfrom about 5% to about 30%, typically from about 10% to about 25%, moretypically from about 15% to about 20%, of the elastomeric fibermaterial, e.g., Lycra®. For example, the crotch region of the diaper maycomprise from about 80% to about 85% nylon yarn and from about 15% toabout 20% of Lycra®.

The rear region 40 cooperates with the front region 30 to encircle awearer's waist and hips. The rear region can be pre-attached to thefront region providing a pull-up type diaper configuration. Alternately,at least two fastening systems can be attached to the rear region thatwhen assembled, cooperates with the front region to provide anadjustable waistband and encircle a wearer's waist and hips. Thisconfiguration provides an hour-glass type diaper design. As shown inFIG. 2, the rear region in the diaper may cover a wearer's buttock.

As described above regarding the front region 30, the rear region 40 maycomprise a woven or nonwoven material, but typically comprises whollyplain knit, e.g., jersey knit, from a combination of elasticallyextensible and non-elastically extensible yarns. The elastic propertiesof the individual yarns and the particular knitting pattern can bechosen to define suitable mechanical properties. In one embodiment, therear region comprises wholly plain knit, such as jersey knit, usingLycra® or spandex yarn having suitable mechanical properties in allcourses. Other knitting patterns and alternative yarns can be used toprovide the desired mechanical properties.

While the rear region 40 need not comprise an elastic material, it istypically extensible in both the longitudinal and lateral directions,particularly in portions of the rear region above the gluteal grove.Such elastic extensibility enables the diaper 20 to fit a variety ofbodily shapes and sizes and provides good conformity to a wearer's body.The extensible rear region further cooperates with the front and crotchregions to provide an upward holding force within the crotch regionthroughout a range of wearer movements. Such an upward force helpsmaintain an article (such as absorbent pad 200 shown in FIG. 4) wornwith the diaper in close bodily contact in the wearer's crotch region.The rear region typically comprises material having a Crotch HoldingForce in the range described above for the crotch region. The front,crotch, and rear regions are often comprised of the same material.

The front, crotch, and/or rear regions of the diaper may comprise atleast one additional extension or panel extending beyond these regionsso long as it does not significantly interfere with the function of thediaper. For example, the rear region may comprise one or more additionalextensions or panels extending partially or fully over the buttocks thatdo not significantly interfere with the function of the diaper. FIG. 3illustrates the addition of an extension 66 to the front, crotch andrear regions of the diaper 20. (The extension 66 is shown on only oneside of diaper 20, but when present it typically would be on both sidesof the diaper.) If such extensions are added, additional side elasticssuch as elastics 62 may be attached to the periphery of the extensions,or the side elastics may be omitted.

As can be seen in FIG. 1, the diaper 20 of the invention is providedwith a pair of leg openings 60. The front region 30, the rear region 40,and the crotch region 50 cooperate to define the periphery of each legopening 60. This periphery typically is provided with side elastic 62for elasticization of the leg opening. The side elastics 62 providecontractive forces around the periphery of the leg opening 60contributing to the fit of the diaper. The contractive forces should begreat enough to fit comfortably against the body and help hold thearticle, and particularly any wings on the article, in contact with thebody through the range of body motions. The contractive forces shouldnot be so great as to cause discomfort to a wearer or adversely affectthe holding properties of the crotch region. Typically, the sideelastics have a relatively low stretch modulus and provide relativelyhigh available stretch as worn. Such side elastics cooperate with thecrotch region to provide a sufficient, comfortable and relativelyuniform upward holding force against an article to hold it closelyagainst a wearer's crotch area.

The side elastics 62 may be joined to the front region 30, the rearregion 40, and the crotch region 50 about the periphery of the legopening 60 using methods known in the art, e.g., using adhesive means orby mechanical means, such as stitching. The side elastics may be joinedto portions of the side edges 25, 26, 27 and 28 surrounding the legopenings (i.e., that form the periphery thereof). Alternately, the sideelastics may be integrally formed, for example, formed during theknitting process, using methods known in the art. For a knit diaper, theside elastics are typically joined to the front region, the rear regionand the crotch region by stitching.

The crotch region 50 of the diaper 20 can also be provided with indicia,e.g., “placement guides” or “position guides”, to help a weareroptimally position a compatible or coordinated article therein. Suchindicia can comprise markings along the longitudinal centerline L of thediaper to help a wearer reliably position the article on the innersurface of the crotch region. Placement guides 64 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3are examples of such indicia. Alternatively, the indicia can comprisemarkings on the side elastics 62 in the crotch region of the diaper tohelp a wearer properly position wings on the article.

It will be appreciated that the diaper herein may have otherconfigurations besides those shown and described. For example, the frontregion may comprise one or more additional straps, strings, panels, orcut-out areas between the crotch region and the adjustable waistband.Other styles, designs, and configurations, such as “bikini”, “thong”,etc., that comprise the front, crotch, and rear regions herein arewithin the scope of the present invention. As described above, thediaper may comprise at least one extension or panel extending beyond thefront, crotch, and/or rear regions so long as it does not significantlyinterfere with the function of the diaper.

The diaper of the invention can be made by various methods known in theart. Typically, a blank for the diaper is first knit in a tubular formusing means known to the art. For example, the front region 30, the rearregion 40, and the crotch region 50 of diaper 20 can be integrally knit.Appropriate knit patterns as described above can be used. In oneembodiment, portions of the tubular knit blank are cut out to providethe leg openings 60 of diaper 20. For example, a tubular blank can beflattened such that the interior faces thereof contact each other and apair of longitudinally oriented side edges are formed. Leg openingprecursors can then be formed by cutting matching portions having asemi-circular, semi-elliptical, or other desired shape from transverselyopposite side edges at regular intervals along the flattened blank.Diaper blanks are then formed by transversely cutting the flattenedtubular blank in a predetermined repeat pattern wherein a firsttransverse cut is made across the material not removed when the legopening precursors are formed to create a crotch portion precursor, anda second transverse cut is made across the full width of the flattenedtubular blank forming the waist opening 21. The leg elastics 62 aredisposed about the periphery of each leg opening and joined thereto. Thetwo ends formed by the first transverse cut are joined by a singletransverse seam to complete the crotch region 50. The diaper 20 is thenfinished by forming a turned welt elasticized waistband about theperiphery of the waist opening.

Alternatively, a tubular blank for the diaper 20 can be slit walewiseand opened. Excess material that would otherwise fill the leg openings60 is removed to form a flat blank for the diaper having a front endedge 23, a rear end edge 24, front side edges 25 and 26, and rear sideedges 27 and 28. The side elastics 62 are joined to the diaper about theperiphery of the leg openings as discussed above. The blank for thediaper is then folded about the lateral centerline T, and opposingportions of the side edges that lie between the leg opening and the endedges 23 and 24 are joined (e.g., by sewing the edges) to form seams atsides 32 and 34 completing the assembly of the diaper. In oneembodiment, the portion of side edge 25 that lies between the end of theside elastic 62 in the front region and the end edge 23 is joined to theportion of side edge 27 that lies between the end of the side elastic inthe rear region and the end edge 24 to form a seam at side 32. Side edge26 is joined to side edge 28 in a similar manner to form a seam at side34.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 17, an hour-glass type diaper of theinvention comprises a crotch region 50 having a first opening 80 locatedat the anus of an individual when the article is worn and a secondopening 84 located at the urethral opening when the article is worn. Inthe embodiment shown, first opening 80 comprises elastics 82 around theperiphery of the opening. Second opening 84 comprises elastics 86 aroundthe periphery of the opening. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 18, apull-on type diaper of the invention comprises a crotch region 50 havinga first opening 80 located at the anus of an individual when the articleis worn and a second opening 84 located at the urethral opening when thearticle is worn. Both openings 80 and 84 comprise elastics around theperiphery of the openings. FIG. 19 shows an absorbent article 90covering the opening 84 for receiving urine. Similarly, an firstabsorbent article may cover another opening for receiving feces. In oneembodiment, the diaper comprises a first fastening material and eachabsorbent article comprises a second fastening material thatcooperatively engage the first fastening material and enables eachabsorbent article to be removably affixed to the diaper. Typically, thefirst and second fastening materials comprise mechanical fasteningmaterial, but in other embodiments, adhesive material may be used toremovably hold the article to the diaper. In another embodiment, thediaper may comprise at least one flap or pocket for receiving andsupporting the first or second absorbent article.

The diaper of the present invention can be used with a wide variety ofcompatible articles, particularly absorbent articles, including pads,diaper inserts, sanitary pads, incontinence pads, BM pads, fluidcollection bags, urine collection bags, feces collection bags (i.e., BMcollection bags), and other absorbent articles capable of being held inclose bodily contact in the crotch region of the wearer. Such an articlehas a compatible shape and size, and may fit within the low-motion zoneof the wearer thereby avoiding significant leg movement interactionsthat can interfere with close bodily contact in the crotch region. Theinvention thus provides a system comprising the diaper herein and acompatible article for use therewith. While not intending to be limitedby theory, it is believed that the article/diaper system providesimproved performance because the diaper maintains the article (e.g., apad) in close bodily contact in the crotch region of the wearer, boththe article and the diaper may fit within the low-motion zone of thebody, and/or the article and diaper are designed to work together in acoordinated manner.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of one such compatible absorbent article suitablefor use in the system of the present invention. In this embodiment, theabsorbent article is a pad designated 200. In one embodiment, theabsorbent article has an absorbent capacity of at least about 50 gramsof fluid, typically at least about 100 grams of fluid, and moretypically at least about 200 grams of fluid. In another embodiment, thearticle has a caliper of greater than about 5.0 mm, typically greaterthan about 7.0 mm, and more typically greater than about 10.0 mm. Othercompatible absorbent articles for use herein are described in U.S. Pat.No. 6,393,621, Redwine et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,582,411, Carstens, etal.; PCT Application WO 99/25289; U.S. Pat. No. 5,354,400, Lavash, etal.; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,687,478 and 5,267,992, Van Tilburg; allincorporated herein by reference.

In other embodiments, the absorbent articles may be designed to absorbonly urine, or only BM, or both. In such cases, one or more absorbentarticles may be used with the diapers of the invention.

An article herein has at least two surfaces, a liquid pervious side,i.e., a body-contacting surface or “body surface”, and a liquidimpervious side, i.e., a diaper-contacting surface, opposite the liquidpervious side. The body surface is worn adjacent to the wearer's body.The diaper surface is placed adjacent to the supporting diaper when theabsorbent article is worn. An absorbent article typically also comprisesan absorbent component, such as an absorbent core, between the liquidpervious side and the liquid impervious side. The liquid pervious andimpervious sides are arranged to form a unitary structure, with theabsorbent component therebetween. An absorbent article herein will bedescribed in detail with reference to the absorbent pad 200 shown inFIG. 4.

The absorbent pad 200 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline anda lateral centerline. The term “longitudinal” refers to a line, axis ordirection in the plane of the pad that is generally aligned with (e. g.,approximately parallel to) a vertical plane that bisects a standingwearer into left and right body halves when the pad is worn. The term“lateral” refers to a line, axis or direction that lies within the planeof the pad that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinaldirection.

The absorbent pad 200 has two spaced apart side edges, and two spacedapart end edges (or “ends”), which together form the periphery of thearticle. When worn, the front edge 202 of the pad typically lies in aposition anterior to the genitalia and the rear edge 204 lies posteriorto the anus. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the pad has a generallyflat configurations. However, other suitable configurations, includingcup-shaped configurations such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,582,411,may be used.

The article and any absorbent core may have any suitable plan viewconfigurations, including, but are not limited to: oval; race-trackshaped; and shapes that have convexly-inward longitudinal side edges(e.g., hourglass shapes).

An absorbent article typically has an absorbent capacity of at leastabout 100 grams of fluid. Other absorbent articles for use herein mayhave more or less absorbent capacity. Such articles can be designed tomeet different absorbency needs ranging from a light incontinence padhaving an absorbent capacity of less than about 50 grams of fluid to anheavy incontinence pad having a capacity of more than about 200 grams offluid.

The absorbent article typically comprises at least three primarycomponents: a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet,and an absorbent component such as an absorbent core positioned betweenthe topsheet and the backsheet. The liquid pervious topsheet, the liquidimpervious backsheet, and the absorbent component can comprise a numberof suitable materials provided that the absorbent article has theoverall characteristics described herein.

It should be understood that articles herein are not limited tostructures that have these three primary components. Articles can beprovided that only have one or two of these components, or haveadditional components. For example, an absorbent article need not have atopsheet if the body-contacting surface of the absorbent core issuitable for use as a topsheet. A liquid impervious component, such as aliquid impervious backsheet, could be joined to the other side of theabsorbent component. Alternatively, an absorbent article can comprise anabsorbent component that has a liquid pervious side and a liquidimpervious side. The liquid impervious side can be provided by treatingthe diaper-contacting surface of the absorbent component to render itliquid impervious.

While the articles described herein and any component topsheet,absorbent core and backsheet materials are typically disposable, theymay be designed to be cleaned, laundered, restored, and/or reused afteruse. The article may thus comprise washable, reusable material.

Diaper absorbent pads are often worn in loose-fitting diapers. Such padsare typically designed to be large enough so that in the event of anyshifting of the pad from its position under the genitalia and/or anus,it will still be able to intercept the wearer's bodily discharges. If anabsorbent article with sufficient absorbent capacity is held closelyagainst the wearer's crotch region, and in particular covers thegenitalia and/or anus, the article can be of a reduced size. Such anabsorbent article need only be large enough to cover these regions ofthe wearer's body, rather than being sized to accommodate shifting ofthe article. The absorbent article and diaper herein typically functionby capturing body fluids at or near their source, using comfortableforces to hold the article in place at the source of the body exudates.

The liquid pervious side of the article herein is the body-contactingsurface of the article. The liquid pervious side typically comprises astandard nonwoven web. Suitable fibers useful for making such a nonwovenweb include polyolefin and polyester fibers. The nonwoven web typicallyhas a basis weight from about 20 to about 200 grams per square meter,e.g., from about 30 to about 100 grams per square meter.

In some embodiments, the liquid pervious side comprises a plurality ofelements extending outward from the body-contacting surface of theabsorbent article. If the body-contacting surface is considered to liewithin the X-Y plane, these elements will extend outward from this planein the Z-direction. These elements can form any suitable angle with thebody-contacting surface of the absorbent article. The elements cancomprise any suitable type of components, including, but not limited to,fibers.

In one embodiment, the liquid pervious topsheet comprises a high loftfibrous material. The term “high loft fibrous material” refers to a lowdensity, but relatively high caliper, fibrous material. The high loftfibrous material typically has a density of less than or equal to about0.01 g/cm³, and a caliper of greater than or equal to about 3.2 mm,typically between about 6.4 mm and about 13 mm. The high loft fibrousmaterial typically has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 142grams/m². The calipers and densities for such material are measuredunder INDA standard test method IST 720.1-92, which specifies measuringcaliper under a pressure of 350 Pa.

The high loft fibrous material often comprises of fine polymeric fibers,which typically have a denier per fiber of less than or equal to about6. The high loft fibrous topsheet material serves several functions. Itallows the article to achieve a “macro” fit that is capable of fittingvirtually all wearers, and a “micro” fit that adjusts to the particularbody contours (which may be in the form of rugosities) of individualwearers. Another advantage of the high loft topsheet is that it is verysoft and “cushiony”. The high loft topsheet also is advantageous becauseit has a low coefficient of friction against the wearer's body due tothe discrete contact of the individual fibers with the wearer's body.

In some embodiments, the high loft topsheet comprises a thermally bondedpolyester fibrous nonwoven material having a caliper of about 4 mm and abasis weight of about 50 grams/m². The fibers of this high loft topsheetmaterial are typically in a random orientation. One particular materialfor the high loft topsheet has a caliper of 4.1 mm and a density of0.0077 g/cm³. Another high loft topsheet material has a caliper of 5.8mm and a density of 0.0098 g/cm³ (after rebulking). If the high lofttopsheet material has one side that is relatively flat and one side thatis “fluffy”, the flat side is typically oriented toward the absorbentcore of the article.

In other embodiments, the liquid pervious topsheet may comprise anapertured film, such as an apertured, formed film. Suitable formed filmsare described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,135, Thompson; U.S. Pat. No.4,324,245, Mullane, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,314, Radel, et al.; U.S.Pat. No. 4,463,045, Ahr, et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,006,394, Baird; allincorporated herein by reference.

The absorbent core may be manufactured in a wide variety of sizes andshapes (e. g., rectangular, thong-shaped, oval, hourglass, dog bone,asymmetric, etc.), and from a wide variety of absorbent materialscommonly used in absorbent pads and other absorbent articles. Theabsorbent core, however, should typically be adapted so that it has thecapacity specified herein. Examples of suitable absorbent materialsinclude comminuted wood pulp, generally referred to as airfelt; crepedcellulose wadding; meltblown polymers including coform; chemicallystiffened, modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; synthetic fiberssuch as crimped polyester fibers; peat moss; tissue including tissuewraps and tissue laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges;superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; cotton cloth; orany similar material or combinations of materials, or mixtures thereof.The configurations and construction of the absorbent core may also bevaried. For example, the absorbent core may have varying caliper zones,e.g., it may be profiled to be thicker in the center, or may comprisehydrophilic gradients, superabsorbent gradients, or lower density andlower average basis weight acquisition zones, or it may comprise one ormore layers or structures.

The backsheet of the absorbent article herein can be any suitableflexible, liquid impervious material. Typically, the backsheet is apolyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.013 mm to about0.05 mm. Suitable polyethylene films are manufactured by ClopayCorporation under the designation P18-0401 and microflex 1401. Thebacksheet may be embossed and/or matte finished to provide a more clothlike appearance. Further, the backsheet may permit vapors to escape fromthe absorbent core (i.e., it may be breathable) while still preventingexudates from passing through the backsheet. A suitable breathablebacksheet material comprises an adhesively attached laminate of anapertured film having tapered capillaries, such as that described inU.S. Pat. No. 3,929,135, Thompson, and a microporous film. A suitablemicroporous film is supplied by Exxon Chemical USA, and described inU.S. Pat. No. 4,777,073, Sheth. The breathable backsheet is typicallyarranged so that the smaller openings of the tapered capillaries facethe absorbent core. The microporous film is joined to the side of theapertured film having the larger openings to form the diaper-contactingsurface of the absorbent article. In one embodiment, both the absorbentarticle and the crotch region of the diaper are vapor permeable.

Absorbent pads and other absorbent articles herein often comprise wingsor flaps that extend laterally from a central absorbent component andare folded around the edges of the diaper in the crotch region. Thewings typically are provided with an attachment means (e.g., adhesive)for affixing the wings to the outside of the diaper in the crotchregion. The wings cover the sides of the diaper and minimize or preventexudate soiling of the diaper in these covered areas. Typically, longerwings provide better side soiling protection. The wings may also helpstabilize and hold the article and prevent it from shifting out ofplace, especially when the wings are affixed to the outside of thediaper. Therefore, longer wings are also desirable to improve thestability and “stay-in-place” performance of the article. The stabilityof longer wings, combined with increased side coverage, further improvesthe soiling protection provided by the system of this invention. In oneembodiment, the article comprises wings having a length at least about75%, typically at least about 80%, and more typically at least about 85%(e.g., at least about 90%) of the length of the absorbent article.Alternately, the absorbent articles could also comprise wings that couldbe removably attached to the body side of diaper 20 of this inventionthrough openings 80 and 84 of FIG. 17. Wings used in this manner mayalso help stabilize and hold the article and prevent it from shiftingout of place. Suitable wings are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,687,478and 5,267,992, Van Tilburg, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,354,400, Lavash, etal., all incorporated herein by reference.

In another embodiment, the absorbent article comprises such long wingsand a primary absorbent core having a width less than or equal to thewidth of the crotch region of the diaper. As used herein, the width ofthe absorbent core relative to the width of the crotch region of thediaper is measured when the article is placed in the diaper as it isintended to be worn. In one embodiment, the primary absorbent core has awidth at least about 5.0 mm less than the width of the crotch region ofthe diaper along at least a portion of the article's length, typicallyalong a majority of the absorbent article's length, and more typicallyalong substantially all of the absorbent article's length. The primaryabsorbent core typically has a width at least about 10.0 mm less, andmore typically at least about 15.0 mm less (e.g., at least about 20.0 mmless), than the width of the crotch region of the diaper along at leasta portion of the absorbent article's length, typically along a majorityof the absorbent article's length, and more typically alongsubstantially all of the absorbent article's length. The combination oflong wings and such a wider crotch region than the primary absorbentcore often provides a barrier leg cuff configurations that improvescontainment of body exudates by the side elastics in the crotch regionof the diaper. In embodiments having thicker absorbent cores, morenarrow absorbent cores and/or wider diaper crotch regions can beselected to improve containment by such barrier leg cuff configurations.

The topsheet, the backsheet, and the absorbent core may be assembled ina variety of configurations known in the art, including layered or“sandwich” configurations and wrapped or “tube” configurations. In oneembodiment, the absorbent pad 200 is assembled in a sandwichconstruction in which the topsheet and the backsheet have length andwidth dimensions generally larger than those of the absorbent core. Thetopsheet and the backsheet extend beyond the edges of the absorbent coreto form portions of the periphery.

The topsheet may be joined to the body-contacting side of the absorbentcore. In other embodiments, the topsheet need not be joined to theabsorbent core to enhance the flexibility of the pad. The term “joined”encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured toanother element by affixing the element directly to the other element;configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the otherelement by affixing the element to intermediate member(s) which in turnare affixed to the other element; and configurations in which oneelement is integral with another element, i.e., one element isessentially part of the other element. The backsheet need not be, andtypically is not, joined to the absorbent core to enhance theflexibility of the absorbent article. The portions of the topsheet andbacksheet that extend beyond the edges of the absorbent core to form theperiphery are typically joined to each other. If the topsheet is joinedto the absorbent core, it can be joined to the core in any suitablemanner known in the art. The topsheet may be joined to the core by auniform continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, oran array of separate lines, spirals, or spots of adhesive.

At least the liquid pervious side and the liquid impervious side of theabsorbent article are arranged to form a “unitary structure.” The term“unitary structure” refers to a construction in which the components arejoined together, or integrated together as a unit. The term includesconstructions such as those described above where the topsheet,absorbent core, and backsheet comprise separate components that arejoined together. It also covers constructions in which the liquidpervious side and liquid impervious side of the absorbent article do notcomprise a separate topsheet and/or backsheet. For example, in thelatter case, the liquid pervious side, the liquid impervious side, orboth, may comprise a surface of the absorbent core that has the desiredcharacteristics, rather than a separate component.

FIGS. 5-19 show various absorbent articles suitable for use with diapersof the present invention. Absorbent pad 200 shown in FIG. 4 comprisesfront edge 202, rear edge 204, and adjoining side edges that togetherform the periphery of the pad. The pad also comprises a topsheet 206, abacksheet 208, and a primary absorbent core 210 that has a generallyrectangular shape, with substantially straight side edges. The primaryabsorbent core comprises the significant absorbent material for fluidacquisition and storage, and typically is located directly beneath thegenitalia and anus as worn. In one embodiment, the primary absorbentcore 210 has a length of about 21.0 cm, a width near the front edge 202and rear edge 204 of the pad of about 6.5 cm. The primary absorbent corealso typically has a width that is less than the width of the crotchregion of the diaper that will be used to hold the article. The pad thushas a size and shape compatible with the diaper so that it can be heldin close bodily contact in the crotch region.

The pad 200 also comprises two side wings 212 that extend laterally fromthe central portion of the pad. The wings can be folded around the edgesof the diaper in the crotch region to help stabilize the pad and preventit from shifting out of place. The wings typically have a fasteningsystem such as an adhesive or other attachment means to help secure themto the outer surface of the diaper in the crotch region.

FIG. 5 is front view of the absorbent pad 200 of FIG. 4 furthercomprising fastening systems 214 and 216, and worn with the diaper 20 ofFIG. 1. FIG. 5 thus illustrates one system of the present invention. Inother embodiments, the absorbent articles may be designed to absorb onlyurine, or only BM, or both. In such cases, one or more absorbentarticles may be used with the diapers of the invention. Other systemsherein are obtained by combining the articles of FIGS. 4-15 and otherarticles described herein with the various diapers described herein. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 5, fastening system 214 is added to at least aportion of the liquid impervious side of the pad 200 to engage at leasta portion of the body-contacting side of the crotch region of diaper 20.Fastening system 214 may comprise any suitable fastening material,including an adhesive material, a cohesive-adhesive material, a materialhaving a high coefficient of friction, or a mechanical fasteningmaterial. The wings 212 of pad 200 are shown folded around the edges ofthe diaper in the crotch region and secured to the outer,garment-contacting side of the diaper. The wings also have a fasteningsystem added to at least a portion of their liquid impervious side toengage at least a portion of the crotch region of diaper 20. The wingfastening system may also comprise any suitable fastening material,including an adhesive material, a cohesive-adhesive material, a materialhaving a high coefficient of friction, or a mechanical fasteningmaterial. Although pad 200 in FIG. 5 comprises fastening systems 214 and216, these are optional and one or both may be omitted. As can be seen,the pad has a size and shape compatible with the diaper so that it canbe held in close bodily contact in the crotch region of the wearer. Theprimary absorbent core of the article typically is of a size andconfigurations to cover the wearer's crotch region and is capable ofbeing held in close bodily contact by the diaper.

As described above, the diaper-contacting surface of the articletypically comprises a fastening system for attaching the article to thediaper. The fastening system may comprise an adhesive material,including any of the pressure sensitive adhesives typically used tosecure conventional sanitary pads to the crotch region of undergarments.Alternatively, the article/diaper system may comprise mechanicalfastening material located on a portion of the liquid impervious side ofthe article that will engage with at least a portion of the crotchregion of the diaper. The mechanical fastening material can be locatedon any suitable portion of the diaper-contacting surface of the article.The mechanical fastening material can be distributed in a pattern thatmatches the pattern of one or more pre-selected portions of the diaper.The alignment of the mechanical fastening material with portions of thediaper can be used as a placement guide to ensure that the absorbentarticle is positioned properly in the diaper. The pattern of mechanicalfastening material can also be used to assist in fitting the absorbentarticle closely against the wearer's body. If the absorbent articlecomprises wings, at least a portion of the wings may comprise mechanicalfastening material for engaging at least a portion of the crotch regionof the diaper.

The absorbent pad 200 is typically utilized by placing it in the crotchregion of the diaper 20, with one end extending toward the front regionof the diaper and the other end towards the back region of the diaper.The backsheet of the pad is placed in contact with the inner surface ofthe center of the crotch region of the diaper. Fastening systems 214,shown in FIG. 5 on the diaper-contacting side of the absorbent pad, maycomprise projections of mechanical fastening material for engaging withthe knit material from which the crotch region of the diaper istypically made.

In one embodiment, the diaper-contacting surface of the absorbentarticle comprises a skin-friendly mechanical fastening material having asubstrate or surface with an array of prongs in the form of a pluralityof small hair-like projections disposed thereon, such as described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,582,411, Carstens, et al., incorporated herein byreference. Such projections are capable of easily adhering to knitmaterial (e.g., the crotch region of the diaper), and have sufficientholding force even when the diaper stretches and contracts.

Cohesive-adhesive fastening systems, such as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,415,650, Sigl, et al., incorporated herein by reference, are alsosuitable for use herein. The absorbent article is positioned on and heldsecure to the crotch region of the diaper by cohering a firstcohesive-adhesive with the second cohesive-adhesive. For example, inFIG. 5, each of fastening systems 214 may comprise a) a firstcohesive-adhesive at least partially impregnated or coated onto at leasta portion of the liquid impervious side of the absorbent article, and b)a second cohesive-adhesive at least partially impregnated or coated onat least a portion of the crotch region of the diaper. As used herein, a“cohesive-adhesive” material is one that preferentially adheres toitself and not to other materials. If the absorbent article compriseswings, the liquid impervious side of each wing and an exterior surfaceof the crotch region of the diaper may be covered with a first and asecond cohesive-adhesive, respectively, such that a firstcohesive-adhesive present on the wings can cohere to a secondcohesive-adhesive present on the exterior surface of the crotch region.The holding force provided by the crotch region combined with the fitwithin the low motion zone enhances the article stay-in-placeperformance of cohesive-adhesive fastening systems relative to that ofconventional pad/pant systems.

The article/diaper system of this invention need not comprise anyfastening adhesive or fastening material in order to hold the article inplace. In one embodiment, the holding force provided by the crotchregion of the diaper combined with the frictional forces between thearticle and the diaper are sufficient to hold the article in place.Similarly, an absorbent article with wings need not comprise an adhesiveor other fastening material on the wings to help keep them in place.

Another fastening system for use herein is described in U.S. Pat. No.6,613,175, Moscherosch et al., incorporated herein by reference. In oneembodiment, the article has a low auto-adhesion attachment means formaintaining the article's position in use. The article is capable ofbeing folded upon itself prior to use, and then unfolded withoutdestroying any aspect thereof. This eliminates the need for a separaterelease sheet to protect any positioning adhesive prior to use. Thisembodiment may reduce non-value-added costs, enhance consumerconvenience by reducing the number of steps of use, and reduceenvironmental concerns by eliminating a portion of the product from thesolid waste stream. The holding force provided by the crotch region ofthe diaper combined with the improved fit enhances the stay-in-placeperformance of such low auto-adhesive fastening systems.

Another fastening system for use herein is described in U.S. Pat. No.6,595,977, Luizzi, et al., incorporated herein by reference. The articlecomprises a high coefficient of friction (COF) surface on the liquidimpervious side (e.g., backsheet) of the article to help maintain itsin-use position. The holding force provided by the crotch region of thediaper combined with frictional forces between such a high COF backsheetsurface and the diaper are sufficient to hold the article in place. Forexample, in FIG. 5, each of fastening systems 214 may comprise a highCOF surface on the backsheet 208 of the pad.

Another fastening system for use herein is described in U.S. Pat. No.5,676,652, Hunter, et al., incorporated herein by reference. In oneembodiment, the article has a pair of wings that are provided withmechanical fasteners. The wings extend laterally from a centralabsorbent component and are folded around the edges of the diaper toprovide coverage and reduce soiling. The wings typically stay in placewell enough to cover the side edges of the diaper without affixing themunderneath the diaper. However, the wings may be provided with askin-friendly mechanical fastening material for additional security.

Other absorbent articles useful herein are described in U.S. Pat. No.6,761,710, D'Acchioli, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,551,292 D'Acchioli, etal., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,602,233 Palumbo, et al., incorporated herein byreference. In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the absorbentarticle is a disposable fluid management device 450, such as a menstrualfluid or a urine fluid management device, comprising a bag 452 having aflange 454 and an aperture 456. The bag typically comprises an adhesivelayer 460 having a first surface and a second surface opposed thereto,wherein first surface is disposed proximate to the aperture and on anexternal surface of the bag, and the second surface is capable ofproviding releasable attachment of the bag to the uro-genital area of awearer. The aperture typically is surrounded by an adhesively facedflange for releasable attachment to the uro-genital area of the wearer.These disposable fluid management devices are designed to acquire,absorb, and contain various exudates discharged from the body, includingurine and menses. The bags are typically liquid impermeable. Anabsorbent material 464 may be disposed within the bags. The absorbentmaterial may be selected from the group consisting of comminuted woodpulp; creped cellulose wadding; meltblown polymers; chemicallystiffened, modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; tissue; absorbentfoams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gellingmaterials; and mixtures thereof. The flange adhesive typically isselected from the group consisting of hydrogel adhesives, oilgeladhesives, hydrocolloid adhesives, and mixtures thereof.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the absorbent article is adisposable fluid management device 650, such as a urine fluid managementdevice, comprising a bag 652 having a flange 654 and an aperture 656.The bag typically comprises an adhesive layer 660. The aperturetypically is surrounded by an adhesively faced flange for releasableattachment to the uro-genital area of the wearer. This disposable fluidmanagement device is designed to acquire, absorb, and contain urinedischarged from the body. The bags are typically liquid impermeable. Theflange typically is adhered to the wearer's skin using skin friendlyadhesive, however, with the diaper of this invention, the flange couldbe modified to removably affixed to the outside surface of diaper 20 ofFIG. 17 using adhesive material. Alternately, the absorbent article 650could comprise specially designed wings that either attach around thediaper side elastics as is typically done with pads, or could beremovably attached to the body side of diaper 20 through opening 84.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 8, such as described in U.S. Pat.No. 6,602,233 Palumbo, et al., the absorbent article is a disposable BMmanagement device 550, comprising a bag 552 having a flange 554 and anaperture 556. The bag typically comprises an adhesive layer 560 forreleasable attachment to the anal area of the wearer. This disposable BMmanagement device is specifically designed to acquire, and contain fecesdischarged from the body. The flange typically is adhered to thewearer's skin using skin friendly adhesive 560. However, with the diaperof this invention, the flange could be modified to removably affixed tothe outside surface of diaper 20 of FIG. 17 using adhesive material.Alternately, the BM management device 550 could comprise speciallydesigned wings that could be removably attached to the body side ofdiaper 20 through opening 80.

Other well know BM absorbent devices, such as the BM containment systemdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,346,097, Blaney, incorporated herein byreference, arc also suitable for use with the diaper of this invention.

One absorbent article useful herein comprises elasticized side shields,such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,773,424, Heyrman, et al.,incorporated herein by reference. In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 12and 13, a pair of side shields 330 are formed on opposite sides of theabsorbent pad of FIG. 4 by a first elastic member 332 adjacent the firstside of the pad and a second elastic member 332 adjacent the second sideof the pad, the first and second elastic members contracting at least aportion of the first and second sides. Each of the side shields has anupstanding end 334 and a terminal end 336 adjacent the absorbent core310 of the pad. The side shields may be formed by an extension of thetopsheet, such topsheet 306 as shown in FIG. 13, in which event the sideshields would typically be glued along their terminal ends 336.Alternatively, the side shields may be formed as separate elements thatare attached to the topsheet, such as by gluing them to the topsheet.The side shields may extend the entire length of the pad or they may beshorter such as shown in FIG. 12, in which event they typically would beformed as separate elements that are attached to the topsheet. Otherwell know barrier leg cuff designs are also well suited forincorporation on absorbent articles used with the diaper of thisinvention.

Another compatible absorbent article comprises a trapezoid-shapedprimary absorbent core with profiled absorbency, such as shown in FIGS.14 and 15. In one embodiment, the article is a thick incontinence padcomprising a trapezoid-shaped primary absorbent core with capacity greatenough to handle medium to heavy urine flow. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 14, incontinence pad 600 comprises front edge 602, rear edge 604,and adjoining side edges that together form the periphery of the pad.The pad has a longitudinal centerline L and a lateral centerline T,which defines a rear region 614 and a front region 616 of the pad. Thepad typically is symmetric about the longitudinal centerline L andasymmetric about the lateral centerline T. The pad also comprises aliquid pervious side such as a topsheet 606, a liquid impervious sidesuch as backsheet 608, and a primary absorbent core such as absorbentcore 610 that has a generally trapezoid shape, with substantiallystraight side edges that taper to a narrowed width near the rear edge604. The liquid pervious side and the liquid impervious side arearranged to form a unitary structure. In FIG. 15, the lateral centerlineT coincides with the lateral centerline of the primary absorbent core610. In other embodiments, the primary absorbent core may be shifted upor down along the longitudinal centerline of the article. In pad 600,the primary absorbent core 610 has a length of about 21.0 cm, a widthnear the front edge 602 of the pad of about 6.5 cm, and a width near therear edge 604 of the pad of about 2.2 cm. The primary absorbent corealso typically has a width that is less than the width of the crotchregion of the diaper. The pad thus has a size and shape compatible withthe diaper so that it can be held in close bodily contact in the crotchregion.

The pad 600 also comprises two side wings 612 that extend laterally fromthe central portion of the pad. The wings can be folded around the edgesof the diaper in the crotch region to help stabilize the pad and preventit from shifting out of place. The wings typically have a fasteningsystem such as an adhesive or other attachment means to help secure themto the outer surface of the diaper in the crotch region. Wings 612typically have a length at least about 75% of the length of the article.Such long wings improve the stability of the pad, and since they covermore of the diaper, better protect it and outer garments from soiling.The article may also comprise a pair of side shields on opposite sidesof the pad, such as side shields 330 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The padtypically comprises, from the body surface down, a nonwoven or high-loftfibrous material topsheet, an airfelt and superabsorbent primary core,and a barrier backsheet.

Typically, the width of the primary absorbent core of a trapezoid-shapedarticle narrows rearwardly so it will fit effectively within the lowmotion zone of the crotch and between the wearer's buttocks. Inconventional articles, as the primary absorbent core narrows, theabsorbent capacity per unit area of core (i.e., capacity density)remains constant, resulting in the article having less total capacity inthe rear half region of the article than in the front half region. Thisreduced total capacity in the rear region often leads to leakage,especially when the quantity of fluid (e.g., urine) to be absorbedexceeds the absorbent capacity in that region. In one embodiment of thisinvention, as the primary absorbent core narrows rearwardly, thecapacity density of the primary core in the rear region is increased,e.g., proportionately increased, to maintain at least equal absorbentcapacity in the rear region versus the front region of the article,i.e., the ratio of the absorbent capacity in the rear region to theabsorbent capacity in the front region is at least about 1.0. In otherembodiments, this ratio is at least about 1.2 and typically at leastabout 1.4, e.g., at least about 1.5. This increase in capacity densityis often accomplished by adding more absorbent core material (e.g.,airfelt and superabsorbent material) to the narrowed primary core. Thisadded core material typically increases the thickness of the core in therear region, thus creating a caliper profile along the longitudinalcenterline L such that the caliper of the rear region 614 is greaterthan that of the front region 616. The pad thus typically has both anabsorbent capacity profile and caliper profile in the longitudinaldirection.

In one embodiment, the pad 600 has an absorbent capacity, as definedherein, of at least about 8.0 grams of fluid, typically at least about20.0 grams of fluid, more typically at least about 40.0 grams of fluid,and yet more typically at least about 80.0 grams of fluid. The rearregion 614 (e.g., rear 50% of the article) typically has an absorbentcapacity equal to or greater than the absorbent capacity in the frontregion 616 (e.g., front 50% of the article). As a result, the rearregion often has an absorbent capacity of at least about 4.0 grams offluid, typically at least about 10.0 grams of fluid, more typically atleast about 20.0 grams of fluid, and yet more typically at least about40.0 grams of fluid. The front region of the pad typically has a caliperof greater than about 5.0 mm, more typically greater than about 7.0 mm,e.g., greater than about 10.0 mm. The performance of such a profiled padis enhanced when it is held close to the fluid source and in closebodily contact by the diaper of this invention.

In one embodiment, articles useful herein comprise a lotion coating, askin care composition, or a therapeutic composition that is at leastpartially transferable to the wearer's skin, such as described in U.S.Pat. No. 6,290,979, Roe, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,156,024, Schulte, etal.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,609,587, Roe; U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,760, Roe; allincorporated herein by reference. The diaper maintains the articlecomprising the lotion, skin care composition or therapeutic compositionin close bodily contact in the crotch region, and thus provides improvedtransfer of the lotion, skin care composition or therapeutic compositionto the skin. The article may comprise one or more absorbent componentsor may be void of any absorbent component. The article has abody-contacting surface such as the topsheet described above and adiaper-contacting surface such as the backsheet described above,although in this article the topsheet need not be liquid pervious andthe backsheet need not be liquid impervious. The lotion, skin carecomposition, or therapeutic composition is transferable to the wearer'sskin in an effective amount to provide a skin health benefit or othertherapeutic or health benefit.

One embodiment, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,760, Roe,relates to an article having a lotion coating on the outer surfaceoriented toward the skin of the wearer, wherein at least a portion ofthe body-contacting surface of the article comprises a lotion coatingwhich is solid or semi-solid at 20° C. and which is partiallytransferable to the wearer's skin. The lotion typically comprises: (i)from about 5 to about 95% of a substantially water free emollient havinga plastic or fluid consistency at 20° C. and comprising a memberselected from the group consisting of petroleum based emollients, fattyacid ester emollients, alkyl ethoxylate emollients, polysiloxaneemollients, silicone wax emollients, and mixtures thereof; (ii) fromabout 5% to about 95% of an agent capable of immobilizing said emollienton the outer surface of the body-contacting surface, said immobilizingagent having a melting point of at least 35° C. and comprising a solidpolyol polyester comprising a polyhydric alcohol containing at least 4hydroxyl groups esterified with fatty acid or other organic radicalshaving from about 2 to about 30 carbon atoms. The quantity of lotioncoating on at least a portion of the body-contacting surface typicallyranges from about 0.1 mg/in² to about 25 mg/in², more typically fromabout 1 mg/in² to about 10 mg/in². Such lotioned articles providetherapeutic and/or protective lotion coating benefits. Because theemollient is substantially immobilized on the surface of the article,less lotion composition is needed to impart the desired benefits.Importantly, the lotion is easily transferable to the skin by way ofnormal contact, wearer motion, and/or body heat.

Another embodiment, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,290,979, Roe etal., relates to an absorbent article having two or more skin carecompositions disposed thereon. The skin care compositions, such as thelotions described above, may have different formulations such that thearticle can be designed to deliver specific skin care benefits tospecific portions of the skin of the user. In one embodiment shown inFIG. 10, the absorbent pad of FIG. 4 further comprises a first regionsuch as region 220 and a second region such as region 222. The firstregion has a first skin care composition disposed thereon that issemi-solid or solid at 20° C. and partially transferable to a wearer'sskin. The second region has a second skin care composition disposedthereon that is semi-solid or solid at 20° C. and partially transferableto a wearer's skin. The first skin care composition has a differentformulation than the second skin care composition. The first skin carecomposition is disposed in an effective amount to provide a first skinhealth benefit and the second skin care composition is disposed in aneffective amount to provide a second skin health benefit. Alternatively,regions 220 and 222 may comprise the same or different lotions, skincare compositions, or therapeutic compositions, which are at leastpartially transferable to the wearer's skin.

The diaper of this invention can also be used with an article capable ofbeing held in close bodily contact in the crotch region by the diaper,and comprising a sensor that is operatively connected to the article.The sensor is capable of detecting various target entities, includinginputs that correlate to elimination of bodily wastes, biologicalanalytes, etc., such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,570,053, Roe, etal.; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,660, Roe, et al.; both incorporated hereinby reference. The diaper maintains the article in close bodily contactin the crotch region and thus provides improved sensor performance.

One embodiment, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,570,053, Roe, etal., relates to an article that predicts the occurrence of an eventrelated to bodily waste, the wearer, the article, or a component orcomponents thereof using a proactive sensor, and responds to thisprediction by performing a function on the article or the wearer toprepare for or to delay the occurrence of the predicted event, or bysignaling the caretaker or the wearer that the event is about to occur.Such a sensor could also signal that an event has occurred. The articletypically comprises a sensor operatively connected to the article, thesensor being capable of detecting an input that correlates toelimination of bodily waste from the wearer; and means for signalingelimination of bodily waste. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 11, theabsorbent pad of FIG. 4 further comprises such a sensor 224. The sensormay be integral with or separate from the article. The elimination ofbodily waste may include urination, discharge of menses, or defecation.The input may be a change in pressure, an electrical signal, or amotion, or combinations thereof. The article may or may not bedisposable, and may or may not comprise an absorbent component.

Another embodiment, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,660, Roe,et al, relates to an article that comprises a biosensor including atleast one bio-recognition element and a transducer. The biosensor isadapted to detect a target biological analyte in bodily waste or on thewearer's skin. The article may comprise a biosensor adapted to detectone or more specific microorganisms and/or related biomolecules and tosignal the caretaker, the wearer, or an actuator of the occurrence. Thebio-recognition element may comprise a biologically reactive agent,typically selected from the groups consisting of an enzyme or sequenceof enzymes; an antibody; DNA; an organelle; a membrane receptor protein;a natural or synthetic cell membrane; viable or nonviable bacterial,plant, or animal cells; at least a portion of a nerve bundle; and atleast a portion of a sensing organ; and combinations thereof. Thebio-recognition element may be Acinetobacter baumaiuiii TOI36 andBacillus sp TOI41. The biosensor is typically a biocatalytic biosensoror a bioaffinity biosensor. The bioaffinity biosensor may be achemoreceptor-based biosensor and an immunosensor. The biosensor maydetect target biological analytes selected from the group consisting ofpathogenic bacteria, colonic bacteria, viruses, parasites, bacterialtoxins, fungi, enzymes, and combinations thereof. The biosensor may alsodetect target biological analytes associated with a systemic or skinhealth condition in the wearer prior to the onset of clinicallyobservable symptoms of the condition. The biosensor typically detectsthe target biological analyte only above a pre-defined threshold level.In one embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the absorbent pad of FIG. 4 furthercomprises such a biosensor 226. The absorbent article may or may not bedisposable, and may or may not comprise an absorbent component.

Test Method for Measuring the Crotch Holding Force (CHF) of a MaterialUsing a “Constant-Rate-of-Extension (CRE) Ball Force Test”

Overview: This method measures a force (CHF) that is related to theholding force exerted by an extensible material when holding an articleagainst a wearer's body.

Terminology: The Crotch Holding Force (CHF) is the force exerted by amaterial when distending it with a force applied at right angles to theplane of the material, under the specified conditions. The angle ofapplication of force and the area of the material upon which the forceis applied varies continuously as the material stretches when tested asdirected in this method. In the Constant-Rate-of-Extension (CRE) tensiletesting machine, the rate of increase of the specimen length is uniformwith time.

Summary of Test Method: Set up the tensile testing machine forperforming this test in accordance with both the manufacture'sinstructions and procedures presented herein. A specimen of material issecurely clamped without tension within a “Ball Burst Test” attachment.A force is exerted against the specimen by a polished, hardened steelball attached to the tensile testing machine. Crotch Holding Force (CHF)data are recorded as a function of extension distance.

Apparatus: Tensile testing machine, of the constant-rate-of-extension(CRE) type. Equipment includes an Imada DPZ High PerformanceProgrammable Digital Force Gauge: Model DPZ-4, and an Imada MotorizedVertical Test Stand: Model MX-110-S Test Stand w/Digital Distance Meter,both available from Imada, Incorporated, Northbrook, Ill. The Force BallAttachment (a modified “Ball Burst Test” attachment) consists of aclamping mechanism to hold the specimen and a steel ball attached to themovable force gauge of the tensile testing machine. The circular openingand ring clamp have an internal diameter of 5.1 cm (2.0 in). Thepolished steel ball connected to the force gauge has a diameter of 1.6cm (0.62 in).

Sampling and Specimen Preparation: The specimen is taken from the crotchregion of the diaper. Clamp the specimen in the ring clamp of theapparatus. The specimen must be of sufficient diameter to be heldsecurely within the 5.1 cm (2.0 in) diameter ring clamp. The specimenmay not require cutting if there is ample room to securely clamp thespecimen in the apparatus. Ensure the specimen is free of folds,creases, or wrinkles, and is without tension when clamped. If thespecimen is not uniform (e.g., it has a pattern, stitching, or a seam,etc.), ensure that the area tested is representative of the crotchregion.

Procedure:

-   -   Place the specimen in the ring clamp, without tension, and        fasten securely.    -   Move the Force Ball to a position immediately adjacent the        specimen. Make sure there is no force applied to the ball by the        specimen (CHF-0.0=0 kgf).    -   Set the distance meter to zero (0 cm elongation).    -   Start the CRE machine and maintain a speed of 25.4+/−10 cm/min        (10.0+/−0.5 in/min). Continue that speed until the specimen is        extended at least 6.5 cm (2.6 in) or until a force of at least        2.0 kgf (4.5 lbf) is reached.    -   While the CRE machine and Force Ball are elongating the        specimen, record Crotch Holding Force and elongation data at 0.5        second intervals.    -   Create a standard stress/strain curve (Crotch Holding Force        versus elongation distance) with the resulting data.    -   Determine Crotch Holding Force (CHF) at the appropriate        elongation distances.    -   In the above method:        -   CHF-0.0 is the force at 0 cm specimen elongation, i.e., the            start of data collection. CHF-0.0 should be 0 kgf at 0 cm            elongation.        -   CHF-2.0 is the force (kgf) at 2.0 cm Force Ball extension            distance.        -   CHF-4.0 is the force (kgf) at 4.0 cm Force Ball extension            distance.        -   CHF-5.5 is the force (kgf) at 5.5 cm Force Ball extension            distance.            Test Method for Measuring Caliper

A comparator gauge such as the Ames, Model 130 with dial indicator Model482, available from the B. C. Ames, Company of Waltham, Mass. is needed.The comparator gauge should typically have a circular comparator foot, aweight of 10.0 grams and a contact surface of 5.16 square centimeters.The gauge is further provided with an 80.0 gram weight to provide atotal of 0.25 psi pressure. The comparator gauge is zeroed. The weightis placed on the spindle extending above the comparator dial. Thecomparator foot is raised and the absorbent article, with any adhesiverelease paper being removed and the adhesive sprinkled with corn starch,is placed garment surface down on the base plate. The absorbent articleis positioned on the base plate so that when the foot is lowered, it isin the region of the absorbent article for which the measurement isdesired. Try to smooth out or avoid any wrinkles. Gently lower the footonto the absorbent article. Determine the caliper by reading thecomparator dial 30 seconds after the foot comes in contact with thesurface.

Test Method for Measuring Absorbent Capacity

The capacity of an absorbent article is determined as follows. Anyadhesive release paper is removed from the absorbent article to betested. To determine absorbent capacity, a sample comprising the entireabsorbent article minus any release paper is obtained. The sample isweighed to the nearest 0.1 gram. The sample is then submerged in abeaker of 1% sterile saline (obtainable from the Baxter Travenol Companyof Deerfield, Ill.), such that the sample is totally submerged and isnot bent or otherwise twisted or folded. The sample is submerged for 10minutes. The sample is removed from the saline and suspended for twominutes in a vertical position to allow the saline to drain out of thesample. The sample is then placed body-contacting surface down onto anabsorbent blotter, such as the filter paper #631 available from theFiltration Science Corp., Eaton-Dikeman Division of Mount Holly Springs,Pa. A uniform 17.6 gram per square centimeter load is placed over thesample to squeeze excess fluid out. The absorbent blotter is replacedevery 30 seconds until the amount of fluid transferred to the absorbentblotter is less than 0.5 grams in a 30 second period. Next, the sampleis weighed to the nearest 0.1 gram and the dry weight of the sample issubtracted. The difference in grams is the absorbent capacity of theabsorbent article.

All limits and ranges specified herein include all narrower ranges,limits, and amounts that are within the specified limits and ranges, andsuch narrower ranges and limits may be claimed even though those limitsand ranges are not separately listed.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, various other changes and modifications canbe made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Itis therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications thatare within the scope of this invention.

1. A system comprising: a) a diaper for holding an absorbent article inclose bodily contact in the crotch region, said diaper having alongitudinal centerline defining a longitudinal direction and a lateralcenterline defining a lateral direction, said diaper comprising: 1) afront region; 2) a crotch region attached to the front region, saidcrotch region comprising elastic nonwoven material suitable for use in adiaper, said crotch region having high stretch in both the lateral andlongitudinal directions as measured by having a Crotch Holding Force(CHF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a Crotch Holding Force(CHF-2.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and 3) a rear region attached tothe crotch region, said rear region capable of cooperating with thefront region to provide an adjustable waistband; and b) an absorbentarticle capable of being held in close bodily contact in the crotchregion by said diaper.
 2. The system according to claim 1 wherein theabsorbent article comprises a primary absorbent core that has a widthless than or equal to the width of the crotch region of the diaper. 3.The system according to claim 1 wherein the absorbent article comprisesa pair of side shields formed on opposite sides of the absorbent articleby a first elastic member adjacent the first side of the article and asecond elastic member adjacent the second side of the article, the firstand second elastic members contracting at least a portion of the firstand second sides of the article, each of the side shields having anupstanding end and a terminal end adjacent the absorbent article.
 4. Thesystem according to claim 1 wherein the diaper further comprises sideelastics.
 5. The system according to claim 1 wherein the crotch regionof the diaper has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-2.0) of less than about0.6 kgf.
 6. The system according to claim 1 wherein the crotch region ofthe diaper has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 1.0kgf.
 7. The system according to claim 1 wherein the crotch region of thediaper has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 0.8 kgf.8. The system according to claim 1 wherein the crotch region of thediaper has a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf.9. The system according to claim 1 wherein the diaper comprises at leastone extension or panel extending beyond the front, crotch, or rearregion.
 10. A system comprising: a) a diaper for holding an absorbentarticle in close bodily contact in the crotch region, said diaper havinga longitudinal centerline defining a longitudinal direction and alateral centerline defining a lateral direction, said diapercomprising: 1) a front region; 2) a crotch region attached to the frontregion, said crotch region comprising elastic nonwoven material suitablefor use in a diaper, said crotch region having high stretch in both thelateral and longitudinal directions as measured by having a CrotchHolding Force (CHF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a CrotchHolding Force (CHF-2.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and 3) a rear regionattached to the crotch region, said rear region comprising at least twofastening systems that cooperate with the front region to provide anadjustable waistband; and b) an absorbent article capable of being heldin close bodily contact in the crotch region by said diaper.
 11. Thesystem according to claim 10 wherein the diaper further comprises sideelastics.
 12. The system according to claim 10 wherein the absorbentarticle comprises a primary absorbent core that has a width less than orequal to the width of the crotch region of the diaper.
 13. The systemaccording to claim 10 wherein the crotch region of the diaper has aCrotch Holding Force (CHF-2.0) of less than about 0.6 kgf.
 14. Thesystem according to claim 10 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 15. Thesystem according to claim 10 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 0.8 kgf.
 16. Thesystem according to claim 10 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 17. Asystem comprising: a) a diaper for holding an absorbent article in closebodily contact in the crotch region, said diaper having a longitudinalcenterline defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral centerlinedefining a lateral direction, said diaper comprising: 1) a front region;2) a crotch region attached to the front region, said crotch regionhaving at least one opening located either at the anus of an individualwhen the article is worn or at the urethral opening when the article isworn, and comprising elastic nonwoven material suitable for use in adiaper, said crotch region having high stretch in both the lateral andlongitudinal directions as measured by having a Crotch Holding Force(CHF-4.0) of greater than about 0.1 kgf and a Crotch Holding Force(CHF-2.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf; and 3) a rear region attached tothe crotch region, said rear region capable of cooperating with thefront region to provide an adjustable waistband; and b) an absorbentarticle capable of being held in close bodily contact in the crotchregion by said diaper.
 18. The system according to claim 17 wherein theabsorbent article comprises a primary absorbent core that has a widthless than or equal to the width of the crotch region of the diaper. 19.The system according to claim 17 wherein the crotch region of the diaperhas a Crotch Holding Force (CHF-2.0) of less than about 0.6 kgf.
 20. Thesystem according to claim 17 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 21. Thesystem according to claim 17 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-4.0) of less than about 0.8 kgf.
 22. Thesystem according to claim 17 wherein the crotch region of the diaper hasa Crotch Holding Force (CHF-5.5) of less than about 1.0 kgf.
 23. Thesystem according to claim 17 wherein the diaper further compriseselastics around the periphery of the at least one opening.
 24. Thesystem according to claim 17 wherein the diaper further comprises atleast one flap or pocket.